Signs Your AC Needs a Repair

If your AC is taking a long time to cool the house or not cooling at all, this indicates that it is time for AC Repair North Hollywood.AC Repair

A dirty air filter or evaporator coils can cause the unit to shut down. A refrigerant leak is an AC repair issue that needs immediate attention.

Whether your AC system is new or old, you need the right parts for it to perform efficiently. The components of your air conditioning unit include the fan, blower motor, compressor, capacitor, and evaporator coils. A reputable HVAC contractor will help you determine which parts need to be repaired or replaced.

These components are essential for cooling your home and can cause a lot of problems if they aren’t functioning correctly. For example, a faulty thermostat or leaky ductwork can lead to wasted energy and higher utility bills. If you want to lower your bills and improve your comfort, consider signing up for an annual preventative maintenance plan with a professional.

When it comes to replacing AC parts, you should know the cost of each component before making a decision. For instance, the cost of replacing a compressor can vary depending on the type and brand you choose. The price of the compressor is also influenced by its age and how often it’s used.

Capacitors are another crucial part of your air conditioner and one that many people forget about. This tiny device funnels electricity into the system, so if it’s not working properly, your air conditioner won’t turn on. A good sign that your capacitor isn’t working is hearing a clicking sound when you turn on your AC. You can get these parts replaced for a reasonable price from an experienced HVAC technician.

A blown fuse or breaker can also affect your AC system. This can be a result of an overload, a power outage, or a simple mechanical problem. In order to fix this issue, you will need to replace the blown fuse or breaker.

A clogged air filter or fan can also reduce your AC system’s efficiency. A professional will be able to clean the blower and fan motor as well as the vents to ensure they are free of dirt and debris that can interfere with air flow. In addition, they can inspect the blower belt and lubricate the fan motor if needed. This will help you avoid AC repairs in the future.

Thermostat

The thermostat is your direct line of communication with your HVAC system. If it’s not functioning correctly, it can make your whole home uncomfortable. Since thermostats are so easily accessible and inexpensive to replace, they should be one of the first places you check if your AC isn’t working right.

If you have a digital thermostat, the first thing you should do is change out the batteries. This is an easy fix and may solve your problem right away! Many older electromechanical thermostats are also battery powered, and a fresh set of batteries could be all you need to get things back up and running.

Next, you should check your circuit breaker. If the switch next to your air conditioning system is hovering between the “off” and “on” position, or if the light is flashing, it may have tripped. You will need to reset the switch in order for your thermostat and air conditioner to start working again.

In some cases, the thermostat’s control board may be damaged and need to be replaced. In other cases, you might need to replace the thermostat’s cover. It is important to replace a thermostat cover that matches the color of your air conditioner so that it looks uniform and blends in well with your home’s decor.

Lastly, it’s possible that your thermostat needs to be cleaned. Dust, nicotine buildup, and other contaminants can interfere with the thermostat’s ability to read temperature accurately. You can brush the inside of your thermostat or use compressed air to clean it. Just be sure to turn off the power to your thermostat before doing this!

Condensation Drain

The air conditioning drain line, also known as the condensation line, collects excess moisture produced by your evaporator coil and safely drains it away from your home. This PVC pipe is located in your exterior wall or on the roof of your house, depending on your home’s design.

Sometimes this line becomes clogged with dirt, algae or organic material from the evaporator coil. It can also be blocked by seals and pipe fittings that need to be tightened or replaced. It is important to check the drain line regularly for clogs. If a clog is left unchecked, it can lead to water damage and mold or mildew problems inside your home.

If you suspect your AC drain line is clogged, shut off your system at the thermostat and breaker. Find the air conditioner drain line, usually located under your indoor unit or on a removable Access Panel, and look for standing water. If you see it, your line is probably clogged and needs to be cleaned.

To remove a clog, start by using a handheld or shop vacuum to clear any visible obstructions. Then, use a chemical cleaner that is safe for air conditioners and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Lastly, make sure the line is pitched correctly; it should slope down towards its termination point outside your home or building for gravity to help it drain properly.

A more preventative approach is to pour a diluted vinegar or bleach solution down the drain line access pipe before you turn your air conditioner on for the season. This can prevent bacteria, mold or mildew from growing and keep the line clog-free all season long. Many HVAC companies offer this service as part of their routine maintenance services.

Another way to prevent a clog is by installing a Ceiling Saver Kit. This device can be placed in the secondary air conditioner drain pan and will detect any leaks or overflow before it causes water damage to your ceilings or walls. The device will also disable your air conditioner if it detects any water and alert you to the problem.

Furnace

A furnace is a gas-powered central heating system that heats air in one area and then distributes it throughout the house via ductwork and vents. A healthy furnace should provide warm air throughout the home without any major fluctuations in temperature. If you notice sudden temperature shifts from room to room, this is a sign that the furnace needs repair or replacement.

An AC professional should inspect the air filter (which cleans the conditioned air and is usually located in front of the furnace) and a programmable thermostat to make sure there are no underlying issues. Other problems to watch out for include a carbon monoxide detector that keeps going off, an uneven distribution of warm air or strange noises coming from the system.

Furnaces need to be serviced annually to ensure they operate correctly and efficiently. This will help extend the life of the system, which can save you money in the long run. When a professional performs a routine maintenance visit, they will test the safety of the heat exchanger, clean the pilot light, check the ventilation system and more.

Many older furnaces are still working well, but when the furnace reaches about 15 years old, it will begin to lose efficiency. A newer, more efficient model is usually a better choice for most homeowners.

It isn’t necessary to replace a furnace and AC at the same time, but an HVAC technician will be able to advise you on the best option for your household. In some cases, a replacement will save you money by lowering your energy bills.

In addition to routine maintenance, it’s a good idea to schedule a professional tune-up each fall before you turn on your furnace for the first time that season. A professional can test the heat exchanger for cracks, clean the pilot light, change the air filter and more to help you get maximum performance out of your system.

The easiest way to keep your furnace operating properly is by regularly changing the air filter and keeping it clean. You can also help by lowering your home’s humidity and sealing leaky ducts where possible.